Where do lice live in a house? - briefly
Lice inhabit human scalps, clinging to hair shafts and feeding on blood, and they can be transferred to items like pillows, hats, and clothing. They do not live independently in walls, floors, or furniture.
Where do lice live in a house? - in detail
Lice are obligate ectoparasites; they survive only on a living host. Within a residence, the primary habitats are the human body and the personal items that remain in close contact with it.
The head‑lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) resides in the hair shaft, laying eggs (nits) on the scalp close to the skin. The insects cling to hair strands and feed several times a day, requiring a constant supply of blood.
Body‑lice (Pediculus humanus corporis) prefers the seams and folds of clothing. It lays eggs on fabric fibers, especially in shirts, undergarments, and socks. The insects move to the skin to feed, then return to the garment for protection.
Pubic‑lice (Pthirus pubis) occupy coarse body hair, typically in the genital region, but can also be found in axillary, facial, or chest hair. They attach to hairs and lay eggs near the skin surface.
Secondary sites in a home include:
- Bedding: pillowcases, sheets, and blankets harbor nits and adult lice that have fallen off the host.
- Towels and washcloths: retain moisture and may contain detached lice.
- upholstered furniture: cushions and crevices can temporarily shelter insects that have dropped from a person.
- Personal accessories: hats, scarves, hairbrushes, and combs can hold eggs and nymphs.
Environmental conditions such as moderate temperature (20–30 °C) and high humidity (≥50 %) enhance survival, but lice cannot complete their life cycle without a host. They die within 24–48 hours away from a human body.
Effective control focuses on treating the infested individuals and laundering clothing, bedding, and accessories at temperatures of at least 60 °C or using a dry‑heat cycle for 30 minutes. Items that cannot be heated should be sealed in airtight bags for two weeks to starve the parasites. Regular inspection of hair and clothing seams helps detect infestations early and prevents spread throughout the household.